Joseph Aoun Elected Lebanon's President, Pledges to Disarm Terrorist Hezbollah with US, Gulf Support

Jan 12, 2025, 04:01 PM

Lebanon has elected Joseph Aoun, the head of its armed forces, as its new president, ending a two-year political deadlock. Aoun, a Maronite Christian, secured 99 out of 128 parliamentary votes, garnering support from both local and international stakeholders, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Gulf countries. Known for his military leadership and neutrality, Aoun has pledged to disarm Hezbollah, labeling the group as a terrorist organization and declaring that "the era of Hezbollah is over." He also emphasized investing in the army to secure and demarcate Lebanon's southern borders. This marks a significant shift in Lebanon's approach to the armed group, which has long wielded influence in the country. Aoun's presidency comes amid a severe economic crisis and heightened political tensions, with hopes that his leadership will stabilize the nation and rebuild state institutions. The Lebanese army, which has received substantial US aid, is expected to play a key role in implementing Aoun's security policies. However, his election has faced criticism from some factions, including Hezbollah and its allies, and questions about constitutional legality due to his military background. While Hezbollah has cautiously supported Aoun, his stance on the group and his commitment to state security are expected to shape his presidency and Lebanon's future trajectory.